Montana: Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Trip

Exploring the untamed wilderness of Montana’s Glacier National Park offers thrill-seekers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the rush of whitewater rafting. This adrenaline-fueled adventure promises an exhilarating journey through Class II and III rapids, guided by seasoned professionals to ensure both safety and enjoyment. With flexible booking options and high customer ratings, the trip presents a chance to take in the park’s stunning natural beauty while embracing the wild spirit of the river.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 9 Best National Park Tours In West Glacier.

Key Points

• The whitewater rafting excursion takes place on the Middle Fork Flathead River, located near Glacier National Park, and lasts 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
• The trip features Class II and III rapids, suitable for participants weighing at least 50 lbs, and includes a safety briefing, transportation, and gear.
• Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary includes a 30-minute safety briefing, a 10-minute bus ride to the river, a 2-hour rafting adventure, and a short walk back to the base.
• The trip is highly rated by customers, with guides praised for their experience and knowledge, and strict safety measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

Glacier National Park’s whitewater rafting excursion offers an exhilarating adventure on the Middle Fork Flathead River.

The trip lasts 2.5 to 3.5 hours, featuring Class II and III rapids over nine thrilling stretches. Priced from $82.08 per person, the experience includes a safety briefing, transportation, and all necessary gear like helmets and life jackets.

The meeting point is at the Glacier Raft Company in West Glacier. Participants must meet a minimum weight requirement of 50 lbs and are advised to dress warmly, bring a change of clothes, and leave behind alcohol, drugs, and glass objects.

Booking and Cancellation

Guests can reserve their spot for the whitewater rafting trip without upfront payment.

Guests can reserve their spot for the whitewater rafting trip without upfront payment, providing flexibility for their plans.

The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for guests’ plans.

Availability for the different starting times can be checked online. With no need to pay right away, visitors can secure their spot and finalize their trip details closer to the departure date.

This convenient booking and cancellation policy gives guests peace of mind when planning their Glacier National Park adventure.

Itinerary Details

The itinerary begins with a 30-minute safety briefing, where participants learn essential safety protocols and techniques for navigating the rapids.

Next, they’ll board a bus for a 10-minute ride to the river’s edge.

The heart of the experience is the 2-hour whitewater rafting adventure down the Middle Fork Flathead River, featuring Class II and III rapids.

After the thrilling ride, a short walk back to the Glacier Raft Company’s base completes the day’s activities.

Included and Not Included

The trip includes a professional river guide, helmets, life jackets, and cold weather gear (if temperatures are under 70°F).

Transportation to the river is also provided. However, food, drinks, gratuities, and water shoes (available for rent at $7) aren’t included.

Participants are advised to bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water, cash, and closed-toe shoes.

Alcohol, drugs, glass objects, coolers, and bare feet aren’t allowed on the trip.

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Participant Guidelines

To participate in the whitewater rafting trip in Glacier National Park, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

Rafters must weigh at least 50 lbs to join the adventure. The trip isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Participants should wear closed-toe shoes and bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, water, and cash. Alcohol, drugs, glass objects, and coolers are prohibited.

Wear closed-toe shoes, bring essentials, and avoid prohibited items for a safe and enjoyable whitewater rafting experience.

While the guides provide essential cold-weather gear if needed, bringing a warm outfit is recommended due to potential wind.

Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable whitewater experience.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback for the whitewater rafting trip in Glacier National Park, rating it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 158 reviews.

Highlights include:

1. Guides praised for their experience and knowledge.

2. Trips noted as fun and informative.

3. Recommendations to dress warmly due to potential wind, as higher water levels enhance the overall experience.

Safety and Precautions

Safety and Precautions

Whitewater rafting in Glacier National Park requires careful preparation and safety measures. Participants must meet the minimum weight requirement of 50 lbs to ensure proper balance and stability in the raft.

Pregnant women and those with mobility issues are advised against joining the trip due to the physical demands. All rafters must wear provided helmets and life jackets throughout the journey.

The guides lead a thorough safety briefing before departing. Alcohol, drugs, and bare feet are strictly prohibited for everyone’s well-being.

Preparing for the Adventure

What should adventurers do to prepare for the whitewater rafting experience in Glacier National Park?

To start, they’ll want to pack the essentials:

1. Wear closed-toe shoes, not sandals, for traction and protection.

2. Bring a change of clothes and a towel in case they get wet.

3. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and water to stay comfortable.

Beyond that, participants should be ready to listen closely during the safety briefing and follow their guide’s instructions on the river.

With the right preparation, they’ll be primed to tackle the class II and III rapids and have an unforgettable adventure in Glacier National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Life Jackets Mandatory for the Entire Trip?

Life jackets are mandatory for the entire whitewater rafting trip. Participants must wear a life jacket provided by the Glacier Raft Company throughout the duration of the 2 to 3.5-hour rafting experience on the Middle Fork Flathead River.

Can We Stop the Raft and Swim During the Trip?

Guests typically can’t stop the raft and swim during the trip, as it would be unsafe. The rafting excursion is focused on navigating the rapids, so swimming is generally not allowed for participants’ safety. Life jackets must be worn at all times.

How Experienced Do the Guides Need to Be?

The guides must be highly experienced, as they navigate challenging Class II and III rapids. They’re responsible for the safety of participants, so extensive training and river knowledge are essential for a successful and enjoyable whitewater rafting trip.

Is There an Age Limit for Participants?

There’s a minimum age requirement of 5 years old to participate in the whitewater rafting activity. Children under 5 are not allowed due to safety concerns. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments.

Can We Bring Our Own Personal Flotation Devices?

Personal flotation devices are not allowed on the trip, as the company provides approved life jackets for all participants. The guides ensure everyone wears the provided safety gear, which is mandatory for the whitewater rafting experience.

The Sum Up

Whitewater rafting in Glacier National Park offers an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. With professional guides, flexible booking, and high customer satisfaction, it’s the perfect way to learn about Montana’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or nature lover, this whitewater adventure is not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: